The study found:
- The average vitamin D status of the Scottish population was 37.5nmol/L, which is above the conventional cut-off for defining the lower limit of adequacy (>=25nmol/L). However, more than a third of all participants had vitamin D status below this level.
- There was an association with socioeconomic status; those living in the more deprived areas and with the lowest incomes had poorer vitamin D status.
The findings from this survey extend our knowledge of the vitamin D status of Scottish adults and will help inform the Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition (SACN) review of the dietary reference value (DRV) for vitamin D.
The FSA in Scotland Director, Charles Milne, said: ‘This research provides us with a comprehensive look at the vitamin D status of adults living in Scotland. This further strengthens the evidence base and will be carefully considered as part of the ongoing SACN vitamin D review.’
Public Health Minister, Michael Matheson, said: ‘The findings of this study help to further strengthen the evidence base around vitamin D and should be welcomed. It is vital that we continue to raise awareness of current vitamin D guidelines amongst those considered at risk of deficiency. We will work with the Food Standards Agency in Scotland to ensure that the results of this study are brought to the attention of SACN and considered as part of its review on vitamin D.’
